Dynamic Tire Inflation Pressure Measurement via Contact Patch Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring tire inflation pressure on moving vehicles are unreliable due to vertical oscillations and differences in axle-mounted tires, leading to inaccurate pressure readings.
Innovation Solution
A method that calculates the tire's contact length and shape of pressure distribution using multiple pressure sensors, accounting for load factors and dynamic movements to determine tire inflation pressure without modifying existing sensors or vehicle speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pressure sensors are used to measure tire inflation pressure on moving vehicles, then the measurement can be performed without stopping the vehicle, but the measurement reliability deteriorates due to vertical oscillations and axle-mounted tire differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameters by introducing multiple measurement dimensions (pressure values at different locations, contact length, shape parameters) instead of relying on a single pressure reading. This transforms the measurement from a scalar value to a multi-dimensional dataset, enabling more reliable inference of tire inflation pressure despite oscillations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds spatial dimensions to the measurement by using an array of pressure sensors across the tire contact patch. Instead of measuring pressure at one point, the system measures pressure distribution across multiple points, contact length, and shape characteristics, creating a dimensional transformation that improves reliability
2Reliability
If multiple pressure sensors are deployed to account for oscillations, then measurement reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the pressure sensor array multi-functional by using it not only for pressure measurement but also for determining contact length, shape parameters, and detecting oscillations. This single sensor array performs multiple measurement functions, reducing the need for additional dedicated sensors and thereby limiting complexity increase
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple measurement objectives (pressure, contact length, shape, oscillation detection) into a single integrated measurement system. By merging these functions into one sensor array and processing system, the patent avoids the complexity of separate dedicated systems for each measurement type
3Measurement precision
If tire pressure is measured when the vehicle is stationary, then measurement accuracy improves, but the measurement process becomes time-consuming and interrupts vehicle operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static measurement (vehicle stopped) to dynamic measurement (vehicle moving). The system is designed to capture and process measurement data while the vehicle is in motion, using the dynamic conditions (including oscillations) as part of the measurement rather than as disturbances to be eliminated
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method provides accurate tire inflation pressure measurements, reducing errors by up to 56% and maintaining reliability across varying tire conditions and movements.
Implementation Method 1
pressure sensors, known per se and in sufficient number, are positioned on the vehicle's traffic lanes so as to measure the pressures exerted by the vehicle's tires
Data Source
Figure 1~3C
Figure 4~7
AI summary
A method for measuring the inflation pressure of tires (Ptp) fitted to a moving vehicle, comprising at least the following steps in which: - a) the pressure exerted on at least one pressure sensor (1) fixed to the ground, in the rolling area of the tire, by a tire (3) rolling on said sensor (1) is measured, - b) the time (t) during which the tire (3) rolls on said sensor (1) is measured, - c) a curve representing the distribution of stresses (Psol) exerted by the tire (3) as a function of time (t) is established during the passage of the tire (3) over said sensor (1), - d) the inflation pressure (Ptp) of the tire (3) is determined using a computer, with algorithmic and/or fuzzy logic programming.The process includes at least the following step: - e) during step d), the model used takes into account two other parameters, namely the length (Lpneu) of the tread of the tire (3) in contact with said sensor (1) during the measurement carried out in step b) and the shape (Forme) of the curve obtained in step c).